Despite being overshadowed by Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, Tobias Harris deserves to be the Philadelphia 76ers’ third All-Star.
As Ernie Johnson and the rest of the Inside the NBA crew were presenting the Eastern Conference All-Star reserves, the Philadelphia 76ers faithful were waiting to hear one name.
A player that has had a breakout season and continues to improve his overall game as he ages. A player that has constantly been overlooked, because he was overshadowed by other star teammates or his team was out of playoff contention. A player that is guaranteed the most money on an already loaded payroll.
Tobias Harris may be the third wheel on the Philadelphia 76ers, but when they have needed him the most he has answered the call more times than not. Of course, I am referring to the late-game situations when they need a deep ball or two.
More from Sixers News
- 3 Sixers players who could help Team USA Basketball
- 76ers 2k24 ratings: 3 most underrated players on Philadelphia roster
- 76ers head coach Nick Nurse bares lofty plans for Paul Reed this season
- Grade the Trade: 76ers swap Tobias Harris for superstar PG in mock deal
- Breaking Down Bombshell Report on Sixers Star James Harden
When Joel Embiid is out hurt, and the pressure is on Ben Simmons to be more aggressive on the offensive end, Harris has taken some of that weight off his shoulders. A case could even be made that Harris was the best player on his team during a handful of games.
For the case against Harris, the Phiadelphia 76ers already have two representatives in the All-Star lineup, with Embiid starting, and Simmons being named as a reserve, it would be asking a lot for a team to showcase three guys who are on a team that is in the middle of the pack in the Eastern Conference standings.
Teams that Harris has been on before he joined the Sixers, have been out of, or on the brink of being eliminated from playoff contention. Being a key piece on a team with high expectations is still new territory.
Khris Middleton, Jayson Tatum, and Domantas Sabonis were named ahead of Harris, yet his numbers are as good, if not better.
Couple his huge contract with being overlooked as an All-star for many years, a nod would have solidified him as one of the best forwards in the game today. Not that he needs it.